Synopsis

The British flagged container vessel Hatsu Prima collided with the Panamanian flagged tanker Gertrude while overtaking her, in the Malacca Straits. Hatsu Prima sustained minor damage which was temporarily rapaired and was able to continue on her voyage. Gertrude sustained serious hull damage requiring repairs in Singapore. There were no injuries and there was no pollution as a result of the accident.

Action taken

The Chief Inspector wrote to both owners advising them to:

Ensure a proper lookout is kept on their vessels at all times.

Ensure ARPA alarm functions are used to give an officer of the watch timely warning of a close-quarters situation

The Chief Inspector also wrote to the owners of Hatsu Prima strongly advising them to:

Ensure all officers of the watch are sufficiently rested prior to taking over a navigational watch.

The Chief Inspector also wrote to the owners of Gertrude strongly advising them to:

Ensure masters are fully aware of the requirement to report an accident to the designated person ashore and the flag state as soon as possible.